RONNIE ON COMEBACK TRAIL

Ronnie Wallwork hopes to return to training next week after being stabbed two months ago.

The West Brom and ex-Manchester United midfielder, 29, was knifed repeatedly in the back, hand and stomach in November on a night out at the Sugar Lounge bar in Manchester.

Fitness trainer Robert Rimmer, 20, is in custody awaiting trial next month after being charged with attempted murder.

But Wallwork, on loan at Championship side Barnsley when attacked, has been told he will make a full recovery and hopes to be back in light training with Albion next week.

“After the incident happened I wasn't really thinking of football, I was just thinking I was lucky to be alive. The doctors said it was lucky my lungs didn't get punctured and it wasn't anything more serious.

“I'm delighted to hear the news from doctors I will make a full recovery because I just want to get back to playing now.

“It is going to be a slow recovery and the doctors haven't really set a timescale, but hopefully I can get back fit.

“I have put on a little bit of weight and I still have injuries where they operated on my stomach, which are a bit sore.”